Proposed Ordinance in Hightstown Limits Number of Cab Companies, Cars

A new ordinance proposed in Hightstown would limit the number of cab companies and taxis in the borough.

If the proposed ordinance passes, there will be a limit of four cab companies in town, with each company allotted a maximum of four cars. Each company and every driver will be required to be licensed by the borough.

Some of the qualifications to be a taxi driver under the new ordinance include:

• Must be over age 21
• Must be able to read, write and understand English
• Must complete a criminal background check and be fingerprinted
• Must have a valid New Jersey driver’s license with no more than six points
• Must supply a certification from a physician that includes sound physical condition, corrected eyesight to 20/20 vision and must be fit to safely operate a vehicle for hire
• Must not be addicted to drugs or alcohol

There is a $50 fee for drivers and a $100 fee per vehicle for taxicab owners.

The ordinance also calls for insurance coverage above the state minimum.

The state statue's insurance coverage calls for:

• $35,000 for liability coverage

or

• $15,000 per person
• $30,000 per accident for injury or death
• $5,000 per accident for property damage

The proposed ordinance calls for an insurance policy covering:

• $50,000 per person
• $100,000 per accident for injury or death
• $50,000 per accident for property damage

Owners' licenses will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis annually, and there is a $50 fee for drivers, and a $100 fee per vehicle for taxicab owners.

The proposed ordinance also comes with new regulations for identification of a licensed cab, which is part of the state statute. Each car must display their license number on the vehicle, and the municipality that issued the taxi the license. Fares also must be displayed inside the cab.

Police Director James Le Tellier said officers would be on the lookout for violations, and said the new identification requirements for cabs should help with enforcement.

The ordinance was revised to align with the state statues.